Editor’s Note: This week’s PoliceOne First Person essay is from PoliceOne Member Garry Howard, who writes about an idea he devised as a response to active shooters in schools. The program is called PERDEF, which stands for Purpose, Evaluate, Run, Disappear, Examine, and Fight. In PoliceOne “First Person” essays, our Members and Columnists candidly share their own unique view of the world. This is a platform from which individual officers can share their own personal insights on issues confronting cops today, as well as opinions, observations, and advice on living life behind the thin blue line. If you want to share your own perspective with other P1 Members, simply send us an e-mail with your story.
By Garry Howard
Police1 Member
Since April 20, 1999, we have been living in a “new normal” when we consider schools and the protection of our children, teachers and staff. To this day, many schools are still not prepared to face an active shooter or hostile visitor.
My question is why.
I am a police officer and have been involved in active shooter training since April 20, 1999. I am one of a team who will respond to an active shooter. Local law enforcement continues to train to neutralize an active shooter and I am confident our local officers would handle the situation.
However, I believe many school corporations are not taking a real approach to training. While many talk a good game, actual true practices are still not in place. Many teachers are worried about how to react if a “shooter” comes to their school.
When a new school is built, they install sprinkler systems, fire alarms, fire retardant materials, and fire extinguishers. They then practice fire drills. I am glad there have been no school involved student deaths in this country as a result of fires.
That said, since April 20, 1999 (Columbine) we are averaging six active shooter massacres in schools each year. Between Columbine, Virginia Tech (April 16, 2007) and Sandy Hook (December 12, 2012) alone, 71 human beings were massacred.
Massacre is an ugly word which I feel captures exactly what happens in an active shooter attack. These three massacres have a common thread. The shooters killed, wounded and committed suicide before police were ever involved.
I have developed a program which addresses what actions to take in an active shooter/hostile visitor attack from a teacher, staff and student perspective. From the time the first shots are fired until police/help arrive on scene the individuals on the ground are in a very dangerous position. My program teaches what to do during this void.
The program is called PERDEF. The acronym PERDEF stands for Purpose, Evaluate, Run, Disappear, Examine, and Fight.
P — Purpose — A person who reacts with a mind of panic does not possess the ability to think logically. Consider options and act with a mind of purpose; make yourself safe. Determining options to crisis events before they occur gives you the ability to think with a mind of purpose.
E — Evaluate — What do I need to do to remain safe? Run? Lock and or barricade doors? Cover door windows? Determine which room windows can be opened safely?
R— Run — Some situations may provide an opportunity to leave a dangerous situation. If departing is an option, do it.
D — Disappear — If you cannot run, understand the importance of hiding so you cannot be seen. Attempt to use existing materials for cover, as well as concealment.
E — Examine — Continually assess your situation. Do you need to stay hidden? Do you need to vacate the area? Always consider your next move.
F — Fight if all else fails — If you face a gunman, who is shooting, you have two choices. Become a stationary target or move to escape or attack. Understand environmental weapons of opportunity and how to use them.
There are no magic pills or single steps which will prevent a planned, determined and trained individual from becoming an active shooter. We need to continue to train as law enforcement officers to deal with this type of threat. We also need to work toward educating our teachers, staff and students in how to react to a shooter before we arrive.
PERDEF will provide teachers, staff and students a better chance of survival in an active shooter attack.
About the Author
Garry Howard began his law enforcement career in 1978 as a Special Agent with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. He has served as a Brazil, IN police officer, Clay County, IN Sheriff’s Office Reserve and currently serves as a Special Deputy with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) and is the Knightsville (Ind.) Town Marshal. Garry also teaches martial arts in his school in Brazil, IN. He began his martial arts training in 1968. He has branch schools in Robinson and Chicago, IL. Garry assists in training local law enforcement officers (LEO’s) in physical tactics, handcuffing and collapsible baton. Local LEO’s use his school for training. He is a member of the CCSO Observer/Sniper Team and has served as a member of their high risk warrant squad. Garry has also been a firearms instructor and officer involved physical encounters consultant. You may contact Garry at info@beforehelparrives.com or via his website at www.beforehelparrives.com
